NEW DELHI: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of five of its personnel following the crash of an AN-32 transport aircraft at Air Force Station Jorhat in Assam on Saturday.
In an official statement, the IAF identified the deceased as Squadron Leader Prashant Singh, Flight Lieutenant Shubham Kumar, Sergeant Jitendra Sharma, Agniveervayu Khemaram Kumawat, and Agniveervayu Danish Alam. The Air Force said the personnel made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty and extended its heartfelt condolences to their families.
“The Indian Air Force deeply regrets the loss of five personnel in the An-32 accident at Jorhat, Assam. IAF extends its deepest condolences to the bereaved families and stands firmly with them in this hour of grief,” the statement said.
The accident occurred at the Air Force Station in Jorhat, one of the Indian Air Force’s key operational bases in the northeastern region. The AN-32 transport aircraft was involved in a mishap during operations at the airbase, prompting an immediate response from military authorities and emergency teams.
Following the incident, rescue and firefighting personnel were rushed to the scene to secure the area and assess the situation. Visuals from the site showed extensive damage to the aircraft, while local reports indicated that a fire may have broken out after the crash. However, officials have not yet released detailed information regarding the sequence of events leading to the accident.
Preliminary reports suggested that the aircraft may have encountered difficulties during landing operations, though the exact cause remains unknown. The Indian Air Force has not commented on the circumstances that led to the crash and has said a detailed investigation will be carried out.
As per standard procedure, the IAF is expected to convene a Court of Inquiry to establish the factors responsible for the accident. Such investigations typically examine technical systems, operational procedures, maintenance records, weather conditions, and other possible contributing elements.
The AN-32 is a twin-engine tactical transport aircraft that has served as a vital component of the Indian Air Force’s transport fleet for decades. Designed to operate in challenging environments, the aircraft is widely used for troop deployment, logistics support, cargo transportation, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief missions. It is particularly valued for its ability to operate from remote and high-altitude airfields across India.
Jorhat Air Force Station holds strategic importance for military operations in the Northeast and plays a significant role in maintaining logistical connectivity in the region. The base frequently supports transport and operational missions in difficult terrain and border areas.
The tragic accident has once again highlighted the risks faced by military personnel during routine and operational flying duties. As investigators begin examining the wreckage and available evidence, the focus remains on determining the cause of the crash and preventing similar incidents in the future.
The Indian Air Force has assured full support to the families of the deceased personnel and paid tribute to their dedication and service to the nation. Further details are expected to emerge as the inquiry progresses and authorities complete their assessment of the accident site.
